Affirming & LGBTQIA2+
What is an Affirming Ministry?
As an Affirming Ministry, Robertson-Wesley has thought through every aspect of the life of the congregation and ensured that there are no barriers, based on sexual orientation or gender identity, to full participation in the life of the church. This includes not only ministry and marriage, but all leadership roles in the church, the church’s theology and its governing policy. The posting of the rainbow flag and other statements and expressions of our Affirming conviction are a public signal, not only to LGBTQ2S+ people, but to anyone who would consider belonging to Robertson-Wesley. It is not just welcoming or tolerating — it is a wholeness for our faith community that we embrace and celebrate.
Becoming Affirming
On June 7, 2009, Robertson-Wesley United Church was officially recognized as an Affirming Ministry of the United Church of Canada. The celebration, held in our Sunday morning worship service included the presentation of our Affirming Ministry certificate, with Charles Bidwell representing Affirm United, Colleen Ouellette (Affirming Ctte Chairperson) and Sylvia Duffus (Board Chairperson) receiving the certificate on behalf of the congregation. We also had participation by representatives of the three other Affirming congregations, Southminster-Steinhauer, St. Paul’s and Mill Woods.
R-W hosted the Community & Connection Advocacy Conference to bring together those who do work in the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to share their challenges and experiences with each other and the greater community. Click here to check out this CTV video about the conference!